renal objectives 6-and like half of 7 (tests and problems) Flashcards
What do renal clearance tests measure?
They determine how much of a substance can be cleared from the blood by the kidneys in a given time.
What can renal clearance tests help evaluate?
They can indirectly measure GFR, tubular secretion, tubular reabsorption, and renal blood flow (RBF).
Why are renal clearance tests useful?
- Evaluating kidney function for diagnostic/prognostic purposes 2. Dosing certain medications (e.g., antibiotics) 3. Determining if a patient can undergo contrast imaging (like CT scans).
What is Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)?
A waste product from the breakdown of protein.
What is the normal serum range for BUN?
10-20 mg/dL.
What is creatinine a waste product of?
Normal breakdown of muscles and it is an estimate of GFR.
What is the normal serum range for creatinine?
0.7-1.2 mg/dL.
What is creatinine clearance?
The gold standard estimate of GFR, comparing creatinine levels in blood and urine.
What is the normal range for creatinine clearance?
90-120 mL/min.
What is included in a urinalysis?
- Glucose 2. Bilirubin 3. Leukocytes 4. Nitrites 5. Ketones 6. Proteins and blood 7. Casts 8. Urine pH 9. Urine specific gravity
What does bilirubin in urine indicate?
Excess bilirubin can indicate liver issues or breakdown of RBCs; it may turn the urine tea-colored.
What do leukocytes in urine indicate?
Increased levels suggest a possible infection.
What are nitrites in urine?
Chemicals produced from the conversion of nitrates by bacteria.
What do ketones in urine signify?
They indicate fat burning; they should not be present.
What do proteins and blood in urine indicate?
Possible glomerular damage.
What are casts?
Tiny particles made up of white blood cells, red blood cells, kidney cells, or substances like protein or fat.
What is the normal urine pH range?
4.6-8, with an ideal of 6.
What can alterations in urine pH indicate?
Increased risk of kidney stones.
What is the normal range for urine specific gravity?
1.001-1.005; high indicates concentrated urine, low indicates dilute urine.
What can alterations in urine concentration indicate?
Complications in the loop of Henle.
What is urinary tract obstruction?
A blockage of urine flow within the urinary tract.
What can cause urinary tract obstruction?
Anatomic or functional defects.
What factors determine the severity of urinary obstruction?
- Location 2. Completeness 3. Involvement of one or both upper urinary tracts 4. Duration 5. Nature and/or cause.
What is the significance of upper urinary tract obstruction?
It can lead to more severe complications since it is closer to the kidneys.